Hi Jeff,
The conversion to a 2.5" outlet on the Peak increased my CFM by 30%. This meant more extraction at the wand and ultimately better cleaning potential and drier carpets. The downfall to the project was by opening up the airflow from the Peak, I reduced the load on the moter. As a result the motor did not run as hot and I suffered about a 30 degree heat loss at the wand. So, in the end it was a tradeoff.
As for the HOSS 700, Nobody knew if the HOSS was any good or not, it was too new. I have a lot of confidence in Sapphire and it's engineers, but also am aware that with new comes a learning curve, for them as well as the user of the equipment. I was prepared to invest in that challenge so that I could have an edge on the competition. I think the 360i would perform but it is also made of a much cheaper construction.